High blood sugar (hyperglycemia): When this occurs, contact your doctor. Exercising may help bring your sugar level down temporarily, but if your sugar level is higher than 240 mg/dL, DO NOT EXERCISE, as this could actually raise the level higher. Ignoring high blood sugar levels can lead to diabetic coma (diabetic ketoacidosis from high levels of ketones, or toxic acids, in your urine), which can be life-threatening.

Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar nonketotic syndrome (HHNS): develops over time and is seen typically in older diabetics or the chronically ill. This is a life-threatening medical emergency with blood sugar levels higher than 600 mg/dL, and thickened blood, fever higher than 101oF (38oC), dark urine, confusion, vision loss, sleepiness, and hallucinations. Seek medical help immediately.

If you have type 2 diabetes, an important way to be sure you get the right care quickly in an emergency is to wear a medical ID (identification) bracelet or necklace.